
Kowloon is a vibrant district in Hong Kong that has a rich blend of history, culture, shopping, and cuisine. Like to shop? No problem. Kowloon has it all from modern shopping centers to the more traditional street markets. Traveling with children or looking for something more educational? Kowloon has many wonderful museums that you can explore while enjoying Victoria Harbour. Here are 16 incredible things that you can do in Kowloon.
Culture & Sightseeing
Kowloon is surrounded by promenades that are great for sightseeing, especially the ones in Tsim Sha Tsui and West Kowloon. You can find some of the city’s most popular historical landmarks, shopping malls, and museums while enjoying the harbour view. In the heart of the district itself, you can relax in beautiful gardens. Or, visit old temples built in the 1900s to get a glimpse of the local culture and way of life.
1. Avenue of Stars

Located in Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, the Avenue of Stars is a 440 m waterfront walk that pays tribute to Hong Kong’s film industry. You’ll discover plaques and handprints of famous stars like Jackie Chan and Andy Lau and the life-sized statues of Bruce Lee as you wander the avenue. What’s more, this is one of the prime spots to view Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and Symphony of Lights show. You’ll also find popular landmarks nearby like the Clock Tower, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Space Museum, and more.
2. Star Ferry

You should not miss the opportunity to hop on this historical ride at least once. This historic mode of transport has been connecting the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island since the late 19th century. For a mere HK$4 – HK$6, you can enjoy a short but scenic ride across Victoria Harbour. To embark on this nostalgic journey, head to the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier just west of the Avenue of Stars.
3. Sky100 Observation Deck

When you’re in West Kowloon Promenade, it will be hard to miss the International Commerce Centre (ICC) skyscraper. It houses Hong Kong’s highest indoor observation deck on the 100th floor, sky100, as the building is also the tallest in the city. For a bird’s eye view of Kowloon, make your way to Sky 100. There, you’ll be treated to a stunning 360-degree panorama of Victoria Harbour and beyond.
4. Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple

A visit to the Taoist temple, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin, is a unique cultural experience. Locals flock here to pray for good fortune, and you can have your fortune told as well. Admire the beautiful interior structure of the temple, easily accessible via the Wong Tai Sin MTR Station.
5. Nan Lian Garden

Just one MTR stop away from Wong Tai Sin, you’ll find the Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden. This Tang dynasty-style attraction is a peaceful sanctuary amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Wander through the beautifully maintained garden, admire the bonsai trees, and make sure to visit the souvenir shop, vegetarian restaurant, and Chinese tea house.
Modern Shopping Malls
When you’re in Avenue of Stars, you’re one step away from some of the city’s best modern shopping centers. They have very interesting concepts that are sure to give you a unique shopping and dining experience.
6. K11 MUSEA
Even if you don’t plan to shop, you should at least visit K11 MUSEA to admire its very stylish and amazing interior. Located just behind the Avenue of Stars, you’ll find many unique shops and a variety of dining options. Moreover, the mall likes to host different art exhibits and installations that you can enjoy as well.
7. Harbour City
Right next to the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier, you’ll find Harbour City, Hong Kong’s largest shopping mall. It’s a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs, from top-tier designer brands to local boutiques. After a day of retail therapy, make sure to visit the Ocean Terminal Deck. Here, you’ll be treated to a 270-degree panoramic view of Victoria Harbour.
8. 1881 Heritage
Once a marine police headquarters, the 130+ historic site has been transformed into a cultural and shopping landmark known as 1881 Heritage. You’ll be able to admire the Victorian-era architecture while you shop, giving you a unique experience.
Kowloon’s Streets & Markets
Moving towards the center of Kowloon, the scenery will change dramatically from the open-air harbour to the more densely populated area of Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok. There, you’ll be able to get a glimpse of the local’s life by visiting the most popular street markets of Hong Kong.
9. Sneaker Street

If you’re a sneaker enthusiast, then you must visit Fa Yuen Street, also known as Sneakers Street. The streets are lined with many shops that sell sneakers from popular brands like Nike and Adidas. Whether you’re hunting for a rare edition or just looking for a comfortable new pair of kicks, Sneakers Street has got you covered.
10. Ladies’ Market

If you’re looking for affordable fashion for women, head to Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok to find the Ladies’ Market. Stretching over a kilometer along, you’ll find many stalls selling clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. You may even be able to bargain and score a deal from the sellers. However, if a seller refuses or even drives you away, just move on to another stall to find similar items.
11. Temple Street Night Market

A short walk or two MTR stops away from Mong Kok, you’ll find the Temple Street Night Market. There, you can find jewelry and teaware to electronic gadgets. You can also get your fortune told too. Feeling hungry? Don’t worry as there’s a lot of street food there ready to satisfy your cravings.
12. Jade Market
Just like the name implies, this market in Yau Ma Tei mainly sells souvenirs made of jade. Tourists usually go there to buy the stones that are believed by locals to bring luck and prosperity. Whether you’re a believer or not, the Jade Market is worth visiting if you want to understand more about the local culture.
Museums
Besides shopping and food, Kowloon is also home to world-class museums. You can explore the exhibits while enjoying the harbour as many are located in Tsim Sha Tsui and West Kowloon promenades. They’re also perfect for families looking for kid-friendly activities. Best of all, they are affordable to enter or even free. Let’s explore some of the popular ones.
13. Hong Kong Space Museum
Located just behind Avenue of Stars, the space museum is a great place to learn more about the universe. For an admission fee of HK$10, you’ll be able to visit the Hall of the Cosmos and Hall of Space Exploration. The exhibits in both halls are mostly interactive, providing a fun, engaging, and educational experience, especially if you bring kids.
14. Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre
Once a British Army barracks, the centre showcases Hong Kong’s archaeology, heritage sites, and traditional Chinese architecture. The center has some interactive games, so it’s a fun and educational experience for all. You can visit the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre for free in Kowloon Park.
15. Hong Kong Museum of History
Located in Tsim Sha Tsui East, the Hong Kong Museum of History offers a deep dive into the city’s past. Its permanent exhibition, “The Hong Kong Story,” presents an engaging narrative of the city’s history and culture. Please note that the museum is currently undergoing renovation, but the essential exhibits remain open.
16. M+ Museum
M+ Museum is located in West Kowloon Cultural District, near the sky100 Observatory. The museum offers a unique blend of culture and sightseeing. Besides the museum, you can head to the public roof garden to get an amazing view of Victoria Harbour. You can also go to the promenade in front of the building to relax after a busy day exploring the city.